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♪♪♪ ♪♪♪ ♪♪♪ >>> It's time for state championship soccer.

Here from the James cowEN soccer park in Des Moines, Iowa PBS is proud to you bring the state soccer championships.

As today we start with class 1a match as the Nevada cubs take on the Cyclones of Denver.

Hi, again.

Everyone, Justin, this is BJ.

Justin, here we go.

What a great way to start two teams looking for their first-ever state title.

>> Yeah.

Both very athletic teams.

Denver, stern at the back, two holding midfielders will take a lot to beat them.

However, the cubs, last ten goals has been spread amongst six players.

>> Let's get introduced to today's festivities.

We turn it over to today's public address announcer.

>>> Golden plaque of distinction award honors the Iowa coach who demonstrated a successful career while making notable contributions towards school, community and the coaching profession.

Presenting the 2024 golden plaque of distinction award is IGHSU soccer administrator Gary Ross and executive director, Erin GERLIC.

The soccer recipient is Julie GER SH of waterloo Columbus Catholic.

Julie just finished her 12th season at Columbus Catholic.

They have reached the state tournament five times under her leadership and she has had players win numerous all-district and all-state honors.

She has been named district and Iowa coach of the year.

In 2021, Julie was named the Iowa character counts state coach of the year by the Robert and billy ray center for character development.

Julie served on the soccer advisory committee, in addition to her coaching duties, Julie is a activities director at Columbus Catholic.

She and her husband Michael are the parents to three future Iowa girls, Sofia, ELLA and Gia.

Presenting the golden plaque of distinction from waterloo Columbus Catholic, Julie GERSCH.

>>> All right, fans.

It's time to introduce flayers in today's championship match.

The non-starters and assistant coaches for the Cubs.

Number 4, Dakota Hendricks.

Number 8, Bianca CNOPE.

Number 9, Alexa bedding.

Number 10, Sara MAHARI.

Number 11, Tempe carsroad.

Number 18, Rachel boarwick.

Number 23, Emily Kelly.

Number 24, Emma STROTman.

Number 26, Maya spikerman.

Number 29, Macy mayly.

Number 50, bella TEMBURO.

Justin Evans and mark Rhodes are the assistant coaches.

Now the non-starters and assistant coaches for Denver.

Number 1, Eva Duncan.

Number 3, JULS NEUBAUER.

Number 4, Kate Wilson.

Number 12, Emily MULLART.

Number 13, kenNA RothMeyer.

Number 21, Alexis middler.

Number 23, ChrisAnn WORCHES.

Number 99, McKenna Broadhead.

The assistant coaches for the Cyclones, cane eagle, Marissa Lopez, Sammy GERKE and Emma Hennessy.

>>> Now let's meet the starters for the Cubs.

Number 2, Tory monkey.

Number 7, Vanessa reed.

Number 12, Isabel Nelson.

Number 13, Aubry Thompson.

Number 14, Evelyn anderson.

Number 15, Avery anderson.

Number 16, MADY Gibson.

Number 20, GRACI Schiller.

Number 28, Reagan Davis.

And number 66, Jocelyn farmer.

Head coach for Nevada is brandy Davis.

>>> Now let's meet the starters for the Cyclones.

Number 00 Tory Schroeder.

Number 6, MacKenzie Mcewen.

Number 10, acres.

Number 11, Bailey Mullihan.

Number 14, Anna mullART.

Number 15, grace Mullihan.

Number 16, Maya roseKRANs.

Number 17, ken SI Schneider.

Number 18, Miranda Thurn.

And the head coach for Denver, Derek.

Ladies and gentlemen, our officials for this morning's matchup -- your referee, Nikki SKOPen.

Your AR-1 Travis SKOPen.

The AR-2 is Abigail spiceNGER.

And the fourth official, Crystal Tate.

Soccer fans, it's now time to play state championship soccer!

>> Our thanks to Rex baker as we are ready to go in this 1a title match.

It's the first of a triple header here on Iowa PBS.

Let's look at the resumes of these two teams.

First off for Nevada, their 15th trip to state, 12th in a row.

They're 0-2 in the title match.

They do have scoring in a multiple of ways.

Head coach, Randy Davis, will retire after 24 years of coaching.

All those years at Nevada, in fact, he won his 300th career match this season.

Now, for the Denver cyclones, their third trip to the state tournament.

First appearance in the final.

They had 20 wins this season with just 1 senior in the starting lineup.

Both teams have been magnificent.

How about Denver, they started the year with a loss to Hudson and just went on a role, Justin.

>> Yeah.

It's about peaking at the right time.

I covered the game the other day.

I was really, really impressed with the two center backs and in front of them Schneider and Mullihan.

But also the left back, McHughen loves to get forward and she has some pace about it.

>> Nevada wearing the white uniforms with purple numbers trimmed in yellow.

Denver, wearing their away maroon with yellow or kind of an off gold.

So we are ready to go as it's Denver and Nevada in the 1a title match.

Each school looking for their first-ever championship.

And for Denver, making their FIRTS trip to the final, of course they had a day off in between games.

They twill got a police escort out of town.

We're starting to see some nerves here early on as the Cubs turn it over here as Denver ready to be on the attack as the Cyclones have been very proficient so far here in this tournament.

Albert, 3-1.

And they defeated trainer in the semifinals, 1-0 to advance to this title match.

We mentioned the Cubs have been here before, but it's been a while.

The last time they appeared in the 1a title match was back in 2015 in a loss to HEELAN the year before.

Played Davenport assumption.

And ended up on the short side there against the knights back in 2014.

Again, Nevada with the strong toss.

You can tell, Justin, there are some nerves here as Denver tries to play it forward with HARbards.

>> Yes.

What I already picked up, Reagan Davis has been very, very tight.

On Mullihan.

Absolutely tight.

It was that the other day with Lewis.

Touch tight where Mullihan kept her at bay.

This is something I think Nevada Cubs have got on hand.

>> Watch Mullihan with a toss to the middle that was headed back out by Nevada.

And the keeper for the Cubs, who has been outstanding this season, Jocelyn farmer will be aggressive.

Let's look at the keys to the match here for the Nevada Cubs.

What do they need to do?

>> Well, I tell you what, they've got to handle title pressure.

They have to keep the Cyclones on defense.

But the Cyclones are so good at the back.

That's the thing.

They'll score a goal.

This is what they did the other day.

Score a goal and sit in and manage the game after that.

>> Each team kind of chipping away.

The Cyclones keeper is Tory Schroeder.

She also had a terrific run this season.

For the Cyclones, what do they need to do?

>> They're fearless.

They don't care who they play.

They have an edge about them.

Like I said earlearlerarlerier, team defense.

All 11 players off the ball working.

>> A case of the jitters has broken out early on as Davis will put it forward for Nevada.

As they try to find their big strikers that's Nelson.

Tries to connect it to the middle.

Again, we're playing a lot of soccer here at the midfield with some long attempts back at net.

Who is going to find their groove first?

In for Nevada, Nelson, again, tried to center it back to the middle.

Each team, they're loading up the box defensively.

>> Yeah.

What you'll find with the back four, especially with acres, Thurn and rosecranes.

They don't mess around.

They don't take a touch.

Ball comes in, they just get that ball directly forward, down the opponent's throats.

Start pressing.

They want to play in the opponent's half.

As you can see, they set up the two holding midfielders with Schneider and Bailey Mullihan, two players to watch.

>> Little bit of a handball.

Not a little, a lot.

So Denver will get a free kick right here at midfield.

Let's see if this can trigger the Cyclones.

Boy, long, deep kick by Thurn.

Congestion the middle.

Denver will try to clear it back out or Nevada will try to clear it back out.

This shot over the net, coming from the outside by Mullihan as had somewhat of a first offensive maneuver as each team trying to figure out the back line of the defense of the other.

>> Yeah.

They scored off a set piece to get through to the finals here.

It was a corner.

Out to the top of the penalty area.

And I believe Miranda Thurn scored the goal.

On a volley, just going over the goalkeeper's head.

The wind just held it up and very light on the wind today.

>> Oh, it's just gorgeous conditions out here as Nevada Cubs will try to push it forward.

In the passes, not as crisp early on.

As a quick throw here by Denver.

Into the middle, muller, have to keep an eye on that junior.

Again, Denver, seemingly to have Justin finding their footing here early on as far as for putting some offensive pressure on this Nevada defense.

>> Yeah.

And you just saw that from Nelson.

Pressing acres as she shouldered the ball out for a throw-in and immediately just sprinted back into position.

So, you can see the work right between both teams as well and you'll find that here throughout the game.

>> It's the middle, the shot just goes over the net.

A perfect opportunity for McEWEN.

>> McHERN should have scored that.

Great opportunity on the volley.

As we look at the replay here, nobody cleared it first.

Under pressure, defender did enough there just to force her to shoot over the cross bar.

>> Now Nevada with their first big threat of the night.

This is anderson.

Tries to go to the middle, the ball deflected away defensively.

Now the centering pass wide of the net.

As anderson, the first real strong attempt by Nevada as they try to push the ball up the field.

>> Yeah.

And she showed her physical presence there.

Just entered a 50/50 tackle with acres.

Again, now they show the attacking presence especially after the chance that just happened in the penalty area, clearing the lines.

And then the opportunity on the other end.

>> Goal kick by Schroeder.

Nevada will hold it in.

That's reed.

And Schroeder will come up and play it off of a hock.

So just getting things started here in the 1a title match.

>> Schroeder just playing the ball out to acres, short.

Not a bad time to do it as the Nevada Cubs' back line dropped off close to the penalty area.

>> Nevada, again, they can score in a number of different ways.

But Aubry Thompson leading the way.

Number 13 for the Cubs.

A good move on the outside for the Cubs.

Into the middle.

That's Nelson.

Held in by MONIKEE and Denver able to force the turnover.

Boy, lots of congestion.

Shot, a shot taken by grace Mullihan.

>> Mullihan could have waited just a little bit for some support.

She has the ability to take on players.

But why not, on a strong foot, you never know what happens.

>> We've seen all of that here at the state soccer tournament over the years.

Denver, team expectation at the beginning of the season was to be here.

They've certainly found a way.

Davis tried to clear.

Here is Mullihan from the outside.

The block put down by Nevada.

That was Schiller.

And it will be a throw here from the near sideline.

By the Denver Cyclones.

>> Schiller, great block there.

Just getting right foot across the ball.

As you have a look here.

Just coming off her thigh.

Just did enough.

That's what it will be about.

Pressure.

On Mullihan up front.

Don't give her time and space.

Stay tight to her.

Don't let her turn.

That will be one of the keys, don't let her turn.

>> Again, Denver that's acres.

>> Throw, try to go to the outside.

Trying to find Mueller.

She's been identified by the Cubs.

Good defense by Gibson.

Denver, trying to inch it closer.

To the outside.

Oh, tricky play as Mullihan was lurking the middle.

And it just Kareemed off of the right foot of the defender in Davis.

>> I love that pass.

Great technical ability there.

Mullihan didn't realize it was there until it hit her foot.

>> Penalty called against Denver.

So Nevada will have some clearance here, right near midfield.

So the Cubs, the motto this year is give yourself a chance is what head coach Randy Davis told the squad all season.

And they've certainly looking for that opportunity here on the possession.

>> And that's all they need to do now is keep the ball.

You see all the maroon Jerseys behind the ball, out of possession.

>> Monkey trying to lead that pass, but a great defensive play.

Stepping in there was acres.

>> Acres did well, just covering space, as we see some changes coming.

>> First substitutions of the game.

Rachel borewick into the contest.

This will stay with Nevada on the throw.

Gone Denver, a lot of maroon on the inside.

They leave it up to to Mullihan to do some work.

Down the far sideline.

It's a foot race to the ball.

Mullihan will be shielded off.

As Maddy Gibson with the strong defense.

>> Gibson taking no chances there with the press from Mullihan.

Just playing the ball out for a throw-in.

Deep.

If we have a look here.

Nice and simple, just shielding the ball, playing it out, regrouping.

But not to forget, they do have a long throw.

>> Denver, back to their bench as they spring some substitutions in.

Ava Duncan into the contest.

We'll get the others here in a moment.

Heat really not a factor here this week.

In the state of Iowa, we've experienced great conditions.

And we got that here today.

Hardly a breeze.

But not your traditional heat that we have here for the girl's state soccer tournament.

This will stay with Nevada.

In fact, each coach, Derek for Denver, Randy for Nevada saying, it's been a pleasant week.

That day in between games has given the opportunity for the team -- here's an opportunity for Nevada!

The Cubs, the kick, the goal put in by Avery anderson!

>> What a pass.

Great technique.

Splitting the line.

Avery anderson timing her run, as we look at this again.

Composure.

Just going around the goalkeeper, Tory Schroeder, getting hips on the ball and just placement into the back of the net.

Well taken.

But the pass and then the run timed perfectly.

Well waited.

As you see that again.

A difficult one was Tory Schroeder dove the right way.

>> That is her 19th goal on the season.

Her first here at the state tournament.

And Nevada ready to pounce again.

Anderson, in fact, missed four games this season with an ankle injury.

She was breaking ankles on her way to the net that time, Justin.

>> Absolutely she was.

But the timing was absolutely wonderful.

So far one of the best goals I've seen from the pass that was played through, the timing of the run, arriving in the space at the right time.

Ball in front going around the goalkeeper, great technique.

Great composure.

Most players really get really nervous in those situations.

>> It's been a while since Denver has been behind in a match.

In fact, you have to go all the way back for Denver to midway part through the year which they were playing elk horn south, in which they were behind in a match.

Here at the state tournament, they had the lead and had played with it.

Now a little bit of adversity for the Cyclones as this one is going to go all the way back.

And they'll give way to the keeper and Tory Schroeder.

>> I believe it was Isabel Nelson who assisted on the goal.

You have to give her credit for that.

>> Nevada with a timely opportunity.

Scoring the game's first goal.

Again, we had some nerves early on, but those are quickly gone away for both.

>> You know, it's just the start that the Cubs wanted.

They've broken the lines of Denver.

>> Out ahead to Nelson.

Again, quickly turned back around by acres.

Mullihan looking for that opportunity the middle.

The Cubs looking for that next opportunity along the far sideline by Nelson.

She'll take a shot towards the middle.

It's deflected out.

Schroeder will come up to field it cleanly.

That ball was up for grabs as Schroeder identified it and came up with it.

Now the left-footed goalie will put it in play for the Cyclones.

>> That will build some confidence for Schroeder, pulling that ball out of the air.

Always looks easy, but it's not.

What a ball that was whipped in from the right hand side.

>> This class 1a field has certainly been one of the strongest ever.

In fact, you had a lot of upsets in the regional finals.

You had a ninth-ranked team get into the state tournament with the 10th and 12th.

It sets happened.

How about Davenport assumption, up ended by dike, relatively new program in its fourth year.

And Nevada was able to solve what a lot of high schools in the state of Iowa haven't been able to do, how do you beat dike new Hartford in anything?

They've been so talented over the last several years.

Whether it be volleyball, basketball.

They're good at tennis.

Very getting good at soccer.

Again, a semifinal appearance.

First corner of the day.

Looks like we do.

>> Looks like an outswinger.

>> Yeah, Tory monkey, the senior will do the scores from the corner.

The header, redirected back out.

Acres able to find it for Denver.

Causing a lot of traffic the middle.

Cyclones trying to clear it.

Denver early on had the possession in their favor, but Nevada slowly imposing their will here as we're getting to the midway point here in the first half.

Davis, took a chip shot.

Tracked down by reed.

That one played off to the side.

And it looks like we're going to see a handball here as it Kareemed awkwardly off of Miranda Thurn.

Have to check at it.

That's what it was called right at the top.

There you saw it.

Right there with her right hand.

>> Right on the line.

Right on the line when you see that again.

It's unlike -- she hardly makes in errors like that, but that was a tight decision.

Right on the line it looked like it.

But the referee is closer.

>> Denver will put up a wall.

Reagan Davis will spot the ball right on the line.

Here is the attempt.

Little too hard and Denver will survive the scare.

>> Davis had the right power on it.

Struck it well.

Difficult one.

It's only 18 yards out.

Little bit -- as you can see, just skying it over the cross bar.

Should have leaned over it slightly.

Had the far post, keep it on the ground and make Schroeder make the save.

Alyssa is back for the Clinton.

GERKE will keep it in play.

Redirected back.

Mullihan can't catch up to it.

>> Bailey Mullihan in the right place at the right time, just sitting the midfield position, keeping her discipline.

>> This one played all the way back as -- can Denver, what is it that Nevada is doing to compromise Denver's offense, specially when they get it past midfield?

>> Well, what they're doing is they're pinning the outside midfielders deeper into their own half so they can't get forward.

What they're doing is they're occupying areas of space in the central areas.

As you saw earlier on, players are positioned strategically.

So when the ball is cleared, they are winning it and it's going straight back.

Also, they dominated a little possession in the final third.

It will be a throw from the near sideline as that one was played out.

The header, towards the net but quickly scooped up by farmer.

They found grace Mullihan to get it done.

Now Denver with some pressure.

Centering pass to Mullihan.

She'll put a shot towards the net.

And it's quickly hauled in again by farmer, who has been at the ready in at net for Nevada so far.

>> Yeah.

Mullihan, two good moments there.

First the flick on.

The Cubs didn't put anybody in front of her, just to screen the ball.

You can see the long throw from Bailey Mullihan.

It's on all the time.

Then the second touch, great little creation of space with the first touch.

Didn't quite get ahold of the ball when she took the strike.

Think about the early goal by Nevada.

First state finals appearance.

Schroeder came up to grab it.

Isabel Nelson was lurking.

>> Nelson has some pace.

Schroeder, great starting position.

A little higher.

She is quick off her line.

Just did enough there.

>> You think about that goal, first goal that Nevada has been able to score in a state final this year, in their school history.

They've been shut out against HEELAN and assumption.

But as Randy Davis had told us, for Nevada, those girls don't remember that because they're 8 and younger.

Unchartered territory for both these two schools.

>> Unless they were down here with their families watching siblings or just supporting the team and their community.

>> Come on, you're 8.

You're looking for a snow cone.

>> They have a few of those around you.

>> Davis, Nevada running their offense on to the middle.

That's Schiller.

Wisely play it back.

Again, they try to get it forward and they do.

This is Thompson.

Aubry Thompson deep in the offensive zone will hit a centering pass but well defended on the play by Denver.

How about that for the captain?

>> The ball landed perfectly for Thompson.

Took the touch to the right in the penalty area.

Perfect for the defender just pushing her wide.

>> Ava Duncan, the senior.

One of the few seniors on this squad comes off the bench and played huge in that moment.

Now more pressure, Denver again able to escape it for the moment.

Davis will control.

>> Nevada Cubs are playing with the old traditional sweeper system.

Grace Schiller sitting in front.

>> Opportunity, the centering pass and Schraeder is there to make the play.

>> Maddy Gibson, the deep line center back.

But what's -- what Mullihan is doing really well is just sitting in between in that diamond.

And she has found the ball.

What they need to do now, Denver Cyclones is get an attacking midfielder up to support.

I know there's only 15 minutes to go in the half, but they can't take the chance.

>> Schroeder, who has been busy, Schraeder, excuse me.

Had a lot of work here.

Both keepers have really.

Schroeder, though, under more duress for Denver.

That will be marked out and turned over to Nevada.

There's a look at the Cubs' sideline.

Of course, at the beginning of the year, they got the news that their all-state defenseman Emma STROTman was going to have to miss the entire season.

So in her place went Maddy Gibson.

They asked her, you know, coach, Randy said, Maddy, we got to have you play sweeper.

And she said, I'm good with it because it's the only position she has not played in her four years at Nevada.

>> BJ, going back to handling title pressure, there's a lot of nerves the last two times they came here, you know, and I think that plays on head coach's minds and that.

But it looks like these players are playing with energy.

I do like the way they're trying to bring the ball down and keep possession.

I think that's a key as well.

>> Mullihan to the outside.

It's a foot race to the ball.

Nevada will clear it.

That one goes out.

But again, Evelyn anderson, just a little more fleet of foot.

It will be a free kick here.

>> You can hear the head coach screaming out.

Pick up the second ball.

Enough maroon jerseys around the ball.

Again Nevada to the near side with reed.

Working the sideline, stepping right in her path is Miranda Thurn.

This actually went off of Nevada.

Monkey trying to play it forward.

Monkey the middle takes a shot.

That just goes wide left!

I was just taking note of monkey.

Takes the corners far side, right-footed outswinger.

That landed perfectly for her.

Nice first touch, dipping at the right time, just going past the post.

>> So MacKenzie, the freshman into the lineup here for Denver.

Coach always says that Mcewen on the attack, they need that.

Got 12 minutes to play here in the opening half.

Avery anderson with a lone goal assisted by Isabel Nelson.

Here in the first half.

Nevada will go to their bench on the dead ball.

Coming back in will be Isabel Nelson.

>> That was a hard tackle but clean by Aubry Thompson.

>> Great tackle actually from Thompson.

>> Nelson waiting for traffic.

Nevada trying to set up shop here the middle.

That's anderson.

>> Did well.

Nice support.

Nice combination.

>> Here is anderson right at the top.

To monkey.

With some terrific footwork the middle.

Now the shot.

That will go wide.

As Nevada gave it a whirl with Avery anderson again.

>> Great turn spinning on a six pence outside of the right foot.

I love the combinations around the penalty area.

And it's one way to open up Denver's back line.

Thompson going to be bumped.

And a free kick here for Nevada.

This will be Evelyn anderson.

Her and her sister Avery looking to go to BAMIDGEY state in Minnesota.

Haven't fully committed yet.

Open to looking at other schools.

Anderson's deep shot, a little too much.

Not really a wind.

Just too much pepper on that one.

>> Yeah.

It was a little spicy, over hit.

She had options to her left as well.

All the maroon jerseys were lined up at the edge of the penalty area.

Play it short.

You want to see if you can just draw a couple of players out.

That's really good.

The combinations around the penalty area.

That's the sixth attempt on net by Nevada here in the first half.

Three so far for Denver.

>> Denver dropped off too deep.

They have to put pressure on mineky.

The white Jersey sitting the midfield, picking up the ball.

Yards of space.

They have time to shoot.

Only be a matter of time before they get one on frame.

In the passing, getting a little more crisp here.

>> I like that from mineky.

She just sits in the space there as a pivot.

Just checked back in.

>> In high school soccer, just as a reminder, you are allowed to substitute frequently and often.

Good maneuvering the middle by Thompson.

Reed.

Trying to find some space.

Good move to the interior.

The centering pass denied by Denver.

Thompson the curve handled by Schroeder.

>> Reed did well there.

Again, the second ball picked up by Nevada.

Denver looked tired.

They're not pressing the ball enough.

>> Nelson.

Pass redirected out.

>> Acres just doing enough.

Look at the press there.

>> GERKE out ahead to Mullihan.

Denver needing an opportunity to let their defense rest a little bit.

Mullihan battling away against Gibson and a big bump which draws the ire of the Denver crowd.

And a penalty will be called against Nevada here.

So an opportunity here for the cyclones.

>> As you look at this again, Davis did enough but didn't have to do that.

She had the cover there.

Rachel came across.

The defending was good.

Mullihan got the ball.

They forced her wide.

That's where they want you to go.

Keep her away from central areas, dangerous areas.

Just around the penalty area.

>> Free kick from GERKE, centering pass.

Wide to Mullihan.

Denver unable to hold it in.

Played off of a hop to farmer.

Nevada will survive the threat.

>> Denver haven't really tested farmer in goal.

There's been a couple.

But it's been easy for her.

They've just -- the wait of the past directed straight at her.

They really need to test her.

>> Nelson loses that battle that time to Schneider.

Schneider out ahead.

Fending her way through traffic.

And the block put out there by Denver.

Traffic play made as this is going to be off of Cyclones.

A goal kick coming up for Nevada.

>> Good pressure there from Anna on the far side.

But just out of your picture is the ball has been pressed around the penalty area.

The rest of the team needs to lock on to the players in behind.

I'm talking about maroon players, locking on to the white players.

>> First half starting to wind down.

Nevada, if you're joining us late, scored 6:30 in with a goal by Avery anderson.

It was her first of the state tournament.

Assisted on the play by Isabel NELson.

That's the difference in this one.

Davis with the throw.

That will be off of Nevada.

So another opportunity for Denver.

Waiting for that good throw by Mullihan.

Grace just a sophomore, will get it back on the return.

The high pass, the header, just wide of the net.

>> Lot more positive.

A lot more positive there from grace Mullihan.

What a great ball into the penalty area.

Just not enough power on the header.

>> Starting to see some moments here, though, for Denver offensively, though, Justin.

>> Absolutely.

Little more energy.

I think that needs -- I think it's coming from the bench, coach Derek.

He'll inspire the players.

You know, now it takes a little bit of adversity.

How can you come back from this, being one nil down.

There will be about moments and percentages.

Mineky, had a solid first half for Nevada.

Pass out to reed on the wing.

Davis with the boot.

Cleared by Denver for the moment.

GERky out ahead.

That's off of Davis.

Mullihan.

Hasn't had an opportunity.

You know, we still haven't heard a lot about Anna mullERT here for Denver.

What has Nevada done to nullify her, the top goal scorer for the Denver Cyclones, one of the top players here for the Denver Cyclones?

>> Well, they've taken care of her.

So all the pressing, keeping an eye on Anna, that's the focus.

But the thing is, look at the goal.

So there's different players that can create movement, thread passes.

That's what I like about this Nevada Cubs team.

They've got additional players that are able to create.

They're dynamic, bit of skill.

That's a play that Denver needs to take care of.

They can't let her keep possession.

>> They go to the outside.

This is Nelson.

Streaking it forward, Nelson trying to cut it back to the middle.

Still out in space.

Centering pass, nobody home.

Mineky now with it.

On the foot, the left-footed shot hauled in off of a double hop to Tory Schroeder.

>> Mineky striking with her left foot.

She is right-footed.

Showing her technical ability with both feet.

A lot of players bring the ball on to their stronger foot.

Not mineky.

She'll have a go, take your chances.

>> Two minutes to go in the first half.

We've seen this at the state championships over the last several years.

The last two minutes have gotten very interesting.

And if you're Nevada, you don't want to give ground.

And for Denver, obviously you don't want to give up one late.

What a move the middle by Avery anderson!

Split the wickets.

Now Mullihan to the outside.

Now nearing the minute-mark left here in the opening half.

>> I like that, BJ.

Split the wickets, been watching cricket lately?

Nevada, trying to streak it ahead.

Good defensive play that time by the Cyclones.

As Mcewen, force fed it out of there.

Nevada still threatening deep and Schroeder will have to move to her left to haul that one in.

>> They can't back off.

Nelson, especially at the top of the penalty area.

You notice how the maroon Jerseys, two center backs can't do that.

They have to press.

As NELson tried to play the ball through.

>> Right at midfield.

Final seconds ticking off here in the opening half.

Denver with one last gasp here.

You can hear the count down from the crowd and Nevada will take a 1 nil lead into intermission.

It's the class 1a title match.

Nevada Cubs lead it 1-0 over the Denver Cyclones.

More when we return as you're watching the state soccer championships here on Iowa PBS.

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♪♪♪ >>> You're watching statewide Iowa PBS.

>> Iowa life has a new program on Iowa PBS that uncovers the diverse tapestry of Iowa's people, cultures and stories.

Here at the half, let's see how one Iowan is using her platform in the stem field to help inspire the next generation of scientists.

>> Imagine this, you're sitting in the classroom and your teacher poses a question that can change your life forever.

How many of you would raise your hand with no hesitation?

That's what I thought.

Well, this is precisely what happened to me as a high schooler.

That one simple act of raising my hand changed the entire trajectory of my career.

>> I was told to sit in the front of the class.

This is where it all began.

I was taking chemistry during my junior year, and my chemistry teacher had just put this out to the entire class of, hey, if you would like to participate in the science fair, let me know.

If I could get a show of hands, that would be great so I know who to double back to.

My mom also said if you have a question or want to do something, you raise your hand.

Regardless of whether you feel embarrassed or think people will make fun of you, doesn't matter.

So I literally raised my hand without hesitation.

And my life changed that day.

I developed color changing stitches to detect infections using beet juice.

The whole purpose here is to create an equitable medical solution for our most vulnerable communities most susceptible to surgical site infections.

I spent Fridays after school in this lab working on my project for about six months straight.

I was able to apply to one of the most prestigious science competitions known to man, and I ended up advancing all the way to the top 40.

Now for context, there are about 2,500 applicants that year.

And so it was a really big deal.

That propelled me into, you know, couple local papers and those local papers got picked up by other organizations.

And I was featured in Smithsonian, "people" MAG, USA today woman of the year for Iowa.

Ellen DeGeneres.

>> Ellen!

>> I mean, come on.

>> PBS news hour.

CBS mission unstoppable.

>> Her name is DEJA Taylor.

>> I'm a humble person.

It's difficult for me to talk about this type of stuff, but I had quite the journey to only be 20.

I was born on the west side of the Chicago, raised on the south side.

I was born into a single parent household.

Very, very young parent.

My mom ended up moving and finding Iowa because of a relationship that she was in at the time.

And we moved to a very small town, hills, Iowa, right outside of Iowa city.

And that relationship ended up failing.

And we ended up staying here.

Not much going on in hills, Iowa.

Not very many people around.

Certainly not have many people who looked like me.

So I spent a lot of that time by myself in a sense.

I would find peace with my thoughts.

And would pursue any sort of hands-on activity.

I've always embraced being a nerd in some sort of capacity.

And I've always been a smart kid.

I've always been curious.

And I've always wanted to make learning fun for myself, but now that I have the platform to do that for others, like it just blends very well.

>> The common denominator throughout everything that I do is like this want to change the world somehow.

Whether that's through my invention, like an actual medical device, whether it's through giving back and being a mentor to the next generation.

I entered a lot of spaces that are not historically meant for me.

That's just a fact.

And in fact, as I was in the beginning of my science fair journey, I did my very first science fair, which I wrote a 20-page paper to enter.

And I got there and there was no -- no other black person in the room.

I feel like that was a realization for me that if I do go far in this whole science thing, that I would reach back and be that representation for others, period.

I just want to nurture young scientists of color, let them know, hey, you do belong here, it's okay to try new things and share my story for other adults to also reach out and to communities of color to get other scientists involved in these stem initiatives and all of these stem competitions.

So, you're absolutely right.

Equity work is top of my work.

>> All right,sir.

So we're going to be doing elephant's tooth paste today.

How many of you have done that?

How many of you are bakers?

Who likes to bake in here.

>> It's my goal to go to every single elementary school in Iowa city community school district because my fondest memories of school were when we had guests come in and talk about their job and do cool stuff.

We would ditch the regularly scheduled programming and we would go out and have fun and learn at the same time.

You'll see that's the basis for everything.

Learning and fun.

>> There we go.

Cheer it on.

Go, go, go, go, go.

Yes.

It's really engaging for them.

And I hope that they carry that experience with them throughout the rest of their academic career, whether it's just a funny memory of it inspires them to go into stem or it inspires them to be a cool person and also come back to their school when they do whatever they do.

I enjoy going back and giving back to the school district that played a big part in who I am today.

I wake up and I choose this life every single day.

Like, I love med tech and I love this community service aspect that I get to do, these school visits.

And I have to choose that consciously everyday, even when it gets rough.

When it gets rough, I mean like sometimes I fall out of love with med tech.

It gets hard.

There are very big words that I have no idea how to pronounce or say.

There are very big intimidating people in this world that I have to face.

If you really want what you're going after, you're going to find -- you're going to have to find a way to get through it, get over it and get back on track.

This one is a book that I am featured in.

I do what I do for DEJAS like me that are in the younger generation and looking for inspiration from someone that I hold a variety of identities.

So I am very proud of who I am.

And because I needed someone like that when I was growing up, I want to be that someone for all of the little kids growing up.

Honestly, I want them to take away the same sentiment that I received from my mom, and that's you can do anything you put your mind to, period.

I want to embark on this journey together.

Because truth be told, the world is waiting for your contribution, your vision, your invention.

And in light of that, we can all become beacons of hope, sources of inspiration and catalysts for change.

>>> It's a one-nil lead as we're at the half, Nevada trying to win their school's first-ever state title in prime position.

Denver wants to do the same thing.

They have to come from behind.

We're about to get the second half under way.

What a good first half.

>> Yeah, it was.

In terms of the Cubs dominated possession.

Denver really need to up the tempo.

They need to close down the midfield.

>> Let's take a look at the first half highlights here.

As things got started early for Denver.

They had good control.

But Nevada's defense was there in that early goings of the game and gave them an opportunity here late to turn that defense into offense.

Schraeder has been busy facing a number of shots on goal.

And then here is lone goal of the game, Avery Anderson with her first of the state tournament.

And her 19th on the season.

Again, the Cubs can come at you in a number of ways.

Anderson had a stellar first half.

And we're seeing the statistics here.

You see the shots on goal.

Nevada with six.

They have also had a corner kick.

And Denver has been called for a couple of penalties here in the first half.

So, we are ready to go.

Denver will start with the ball, heading to the opposite goal.

As the referee, Nikki SHUPEN is ready to mark it for play.

As here we go.

The 1a title match.

The pitch has been rocking here all week long in class 1a, tremendous amount of activity.

And it was, I guess, showing the parody in 1a this year as your defending state champion, Davenport assumption, up ended in the opening round by dike new Hartford.

Nevada actually fell down by a goal in their opening match against Hudson.

Showing some resiliency.

Denver has been cruising right along, beating council bluffs St. Albert in the opening round on Tuesday 3-1.

1-nil win over trainer.

That's how these two teams got here to the state championship.

As it's a 1-nil lead again for Nevada.

Cubs have been a program that has been a perennial power in class 1a over the years.

This is their third state championship match that they've played in.

And for the Cyclones, third trip to state this year.

First-time ever that they played in the state title match in a very young squad.

One we have to keep an eye on over the next several years as they have a soccer club that is just Budding.

Reed to the outside who had a terrific first half.

Centered the pass, it will be denied by Denver.

It will be played more towards the middle and the Cubs and Gracie Schiller.

>> Just early on there, mineky allowed to play a line-breaking pass.

Wasn't quite picked up.

Great skill there -- >> Thompson.

Avery will shoot it out to reed.

She has a chance.

She'll bend it towards the net.

It's up and over and just wide left!

What an opportunity!

Thompson creating that opportunity for reed.

Take a look at it again.

>> Well, look at this, yeah, Thompson into reed.

Reed, perfect right-footed cross.

Could have gone in on the far post, scraping past as that player again, Isabel Nelson, at the far post.

>> Again the Cubs will continue to put pressure on.

Senior laden team.

Reed almost had a chance to crack that free.

Great recovery by Mcewen.

Mullihan going to come off to the near side to HARbards.

And the Cubs stellar at the midfield.

Anderson, foot race to the ball.

Denver back defensively and Nevada will have to throw it in.

So here we go with the Cubs.

Again, Nelson, Schroeder with traffic out in front of her.

Steps up in front of that one as Aubry Thompson gave it a whirl.

>> Another dangerous ball played in by Thompson.

Schroeder did really well to come out.

Diving low.

Holding on to the ball.

Could have been dangerous.

Luckily she didn't fumble it.

>> How much confidence is this going to give this Denver bunch if they can with stand this pressure by Nevada as they try to turn this one around?

>> Look, defensively they can't score goals.

They need to get a little tighter, especially on Thompson.

Nelson, reed out wide on the right.

She has been dangerous going forward.

>> Nelson again, trying to find Thompson.

To the middle with Anderson.

That shot going to go just wide right.

>> Again, not allowing strikes.

Avery Thompson allowed to shoot.

>> What adjustments -- I mean, for Denver offensively do you think we'll see out of head coach Derek?

>> Pressure on the ball immediately.

Because Denver controlling possession right now.

They need to up the tempo.

And I think that's going to be key.

And get more players going forward.

So as they transition forward, they don't want to isolate Mullihan.

They need to get players forward, maybe start one or two players.

You're 1-nil down.

They have the ability to do it.

>> Good pressure on the ball by Thompson.

Tries to shake it free.

And we will get a late whistle here.

>> Nikki SHUpen playing advantage.

Didn't work out.

And I love that in officials.

Very good officiating there.

>> Right at midfield.

Nevada with a free kick here.

>> But if you look to the left hand side, you have Davis and acres of space.

>> Evelyn anderson putting it in the air.

Mineky will track it down for Nevada.

>> Talk about picking up the second ball.

Mineky, just picking up the pieces.

>> Isabel Nelson centering pass denied by Denver.

Now to Thompson.

Anderson!

And that shot goes above.

>> Avery Anderson just creating enough space for herself, getting that shot off.

As we see this, great turn.

Love that.

Great ability.

Great awareness as well.

Just too much in it over the cross bar.

Again, you can see the Cubs just continue pressing, continue to create opportunities and chances.

>> Thompson again the middle, trying to avoid the double team.

Terrific dribbling.

Finally cleared.

And could this be an opportunity for Mullihan?

Out ahead.

Grace Mullihan to the outside.

Looking to put some pressure on Nevada.

Mullihan waiting for the cavalry.

The centering pass.

Now the blast and too much that time by Bailey Mullihan.

>> Credit to grace Mullihan did really well.

Knew there was no support in the penalty area.

Turned out, kept possession, playing it back.

>> Nevada will go to their bench.

As Alexa bedding into this title match.

She'll give Thompson a rest.

Mullihan to the outside.

Tried to squeak one in there but Jocelyn farmer haven't heard too much from her since early on in the first half, alert to track it.

>> Little bit positive here from Denver, but again it's Gracie Mullihan doing the work in the wide areas.

I would like to see her more in the penalty area with some of the other players working around.

I would like to see MacKenzie, if she can get forward a little more, she's quick.

Being contained.

Pressed back.

I just think it's the threat of the front line of the Cubs.

>> It will be a throw from the far sideline here for Nevada.

And the Cubs quickly go back to their bench again.

And Rachel boarwick will come into the contest.

Nevada calling for a corner and they are going to get it.

Boy, initially you thought that was out on Nevada, but, Nikki SHUpen said no.

Nevada with their corner second, second of the match.

Here is Tory mineky.

Tore his ACL her freshman year and the senior with the centering pass.

The header just goes wide of the net.

As mineky had it right on the money.

But Anderson a little too much here.

>> As you look at this, Anderson, question the defending again.

It was just enough to go out for a goal kick, luckily for Denver.

Probably mineky's first poor touch I would say.

Been consistent.

>> Yeah.

>> Nevada trying to keep working.

Mullihan couldn't quite catch up to it.

Denver with the terrific opportunity Anna Mueller came in from the outside.

And just had it go wide right.

Take a look at the pass.

And now Mueller.

>> Well, I tell you what, redirecting that ball, just going past the post.

But I must say, it's much more positive now from Denver.

Definitely is.

I thought that GERKE could have played that ball in first time to Mullihan instead of taking the touch, played in first time.

Mullihan had that split second if it was the right pass to shoot.

>> Nelson.

Again, into the middle, the pass.

Here's mineky.

Denver trying to set up defensively.

>> Much better pressure there.

Much better pressure.

>> Schneider.

Able to force the turnover for Denver.

>> Little more energy there, especially the midfield with the double six pivot with kenZY Schneider and Bailey Mullihan.

>> A long kick that time from Schroeder.

Reed down the near sideline.

And Nevada will go with a throw here.

>> It's going to work to the benefit of Denver.

The more and more Nevada drop off at the back, creating space, not attacking the ball in the air, letting it bounce, is going to give more attacking prowess for Gracie Mullihan.

Now you can see the cyclones just OODSing with confidence up in the game.

This is the intensity they needed in the first half.

Maybe they're saving it for the second.

>> It certainly has picked up.

Again, trying to put more pressure, three defenders back for Nevada.

Again, an opportunity here for Denver.

And it looks like we have a stoppage as coach DK going to be putting in a triple substitutions here.

>> So when you look at Denver Cyclones, they talk about playing with a fearless edge.

Now you can see there's a little more tenacity, a little more aggressiveness, closing down a little more want to get forward.

Yes, we talk about defending all 11 players.

Unfortunately in the first half, it was a little bit off and is now back in.

They're counterpressing, they're recovering in to win the ball.

They're making a game of it, as we see the subs coming in.

>> Nevada with their own triple substitution here.

And what a line that's going out with Anderson, Nelson and also reed.

Going to rest up for the final moments of this one.

It's 1a title match, we're in the second half.

Nevada with that 1-nil lead.

Both teams going to their bench.

And you can tell that there's going to be a little bit of a gear-up here as we get a little bit later on in this one.

But whose bench is going to have the most depth?

As this one is played down field by Denver.

>> And there's the difference in the midfield, closing down mineky, two players.

And the two players I spoke about, Schneider and Bailey Mullihan.

>> Bailey Mullihan with a couple goals already here in the state tournament.

Farmer a little bit more active here in the second half.

>> That's well played there by rosecrane, heading the ball forward, taking it out of the air, just what's needed.

Don't let the ball bounce.

>> And Dakota Hendricks with that shot.

Little bit wide right.

>> Yeah.

Schraeder just watched the ball go out for a goal kick.

>> Denver looking for that opportunity.

Free kick here for Nevada.

>> Taking their time.

Every second counts as it winds down.

>> Again, having that goal advantage.

>> She has options to her left again with Davis, back pedaling out of your picture.

Now you see her.

There you go.

>> Want to remind you we've got more state championship soccer coming your way at 2:30, it will be the class 3A title match.

As for the third time it will be Bettendorff taking on west Des Moines valley in the 3A title match.

2A title match comes your way at 5:30 tonight as Dallas center grimes will look to three-peat .

In their way, the comets of north Polk.

That one mis-played but finally grapeled down by Schroeder.

>> Evelyn Anderson just putting her foot through there.

Difficult for Schroeder.

Could hear her teammates saying it's going out.

Lovely passing.

Look at the run forward as well.

>> Mullihan, a deep attempt, farmer right there.

>> KenZY, Schneider, pulling the ball into Mullihan's feet.

Perfect turn.

I would like to have seen the combination with the ball going back into Schneider.

It's a little bit better now.

Players are starting to make forward runs, which didn't happen in the first half.

And it could be dangerous.

It could open something up here.

It's more exciting as you can see.

Look at the domination with the combinations there again.

Schneider and Mullihan.

>> This one will be played out by Denver.

So nearing the halfway point here in the late half, Denver and Nevada.

Again, the table stakes.

Each school going for their first-ever state soccer championship.

Trying to lay claim to that.

And right now Nevada with the advantage as they got a goal out of Avery Anderson at the 32-minute mark in the first half.

This will stay with Denver.

Well, you can stay connected with Iowa PBS sports no matter where you're watching from.

Join the conversation, follow us on Facebook and X and use the #IowaPBSsports to enjoy the championships with other fans.

Back in to a little give and take.

Nevada trying to clear it out ahead with bedding.

>> Bedding does well just to keep the ball up, but again, picked off in the midfield.

It's good positioning.

Mullihan forced wide.

Dis-possessed by Gracie Schiller.

>> The defense has been so talented here today for Nevada, keeping Mullihan nullified.

>> Still letting the ball bounce, very, very deep.

Boxing Mullihan in.

Mullihan is finding space in between the lines there, in between the box.

Just not picked up tight enough as you can see.

>> Farmer again easily played.

Giving it a whirl that time for Denver.

>> Julia NEUBEREY in the game.

Very tenacious.

She was good the other day in the semifinal.

>> Back at it.

Nevada down the field.

See if this turns into an opportunity.

Bedding.

Trying to go wide.

Caught up along the end line.

And Schroeder will come in to retrieve.

>> Great combination earlier.

No dribbling.

Quickly drewing defenders in.

That's what it's about space in behind.

Combination with Aubry Thompson and bedding it's dangerous.

>> Block made by Nevada and Evelyn Anderson.

>> Critical block.

Terrific job by Mullihan.

They try to find her, Denver.

The shot hauled in by farmer.

What a direct kick on net.

As Denver just comes up short.

That time it was Bailey Mullihan.

You can feel the momentum starting to switch here.

Farmer getting peppered.

>> Much better.

Much better by Denver.

Playing their way into the game.

Maybe it was just nerves in the first half.

The occasion here, the final, playing in front of your fans.

Little bit of energy.

Still got 20 minutes -- just under 20 minutes to play.

And what I do like is that the two the midfield holding -- >> Here is an opportunity towards the net.

Mullihan going to be stepped in front of.

Did that go out?

Yes, it will be a corner kick here coming up for Denver.

It will be their first corner of the state championship match and again DK going to the bench for the Cyclones.

Bringing three in including GERKE doing the chores from the corner.

>> Straight to the corner flag.

>> KBRKS ERKE with nine assists in the season.

>> Just went to the middle.

Nobody home.

And Nevada avoids it from the moment.

Nelson with speed across from the far sideline.

>> Support, could have turned out with the right foot.

As the Cubs came streaming out with pace.

Now getting the advantage.

>> Clearance that time by Denver.

Reed goes to the middle.

Nelson.

Isabel Nelson down the far sideline.

Nifty cutback to the middle.

And the header held off of a hock that time.

Avery Anderson tried to put another one on the board.

>> Avery Anderson, the goal scorer, the only goal scorer.

Player to watch.

Got to put pressure now.

Reed shifted out to the left hand side.

She was effective on this near side.

On the right.

Creating a couple of opportunities.

>> Certainly a little more energy.

Down the stretch here.

>> You can hear the Denver coach Derek on the sideline urging his players to get higher.

Feeling tell the back line to get higher.

Schraeder needs to also connect with her back line.

She's still on her goal line.

>> Gibson, tries to play it forward.

Reagan Davis along the far side, letting it roll.

Tough play the middle.

And Nevada, whistled with the penalty.

>> Bailey Monahan, protecting space.

It came off the top of her head.

Slight collision there.

>> Beg your pardon.

Denver whistled for the penalty.

Free kick for the Cubs.

And an easily-played ball by Schroeder.

>> Nevada got to start keeping the ball.

They start just kicking it forward, especially with free-kick moments like that.

Closer options, mineky would be a player to get on the ball most definitely Aubry Thompson, Nelson.

They've got the quality players to do it.

>> Centering.

And off of a hop as GERKE gave it a shot.

So the 1a state championship starting to wind down inside of the last 15 minutes here coming up.

Nevada trying to make sure that one-goal lead stands foot.

This will be Nevada's throw.

Anderson.

Off into the far corner.

As Denver had some aggressive offensive maneuvers here in the second half, but Nevada's defense has held strong.

Mineky to the middle.

Nelson trying to hit a cutter.

And unable to track that down was Avery Anderson.

You the tell she's logged a lot of minutes, just not the juice, if you will.

>> Yeah.

And you know, coming off her line, see how quick she was.

Just coming out.

Smothering the ball, looking forward.

Avery Anderson, she's still got some energy in her.

>> Anderson with that header.

Avery will track it down defensively.

Duncan with the true pass up to the sideline and it will be whistled out as Mueller just couldn't control it.

And now Nevada will go back to their bench.

>> Oh, look at the change here.

This is tactical for pace.

>> JER vis will check out.

Coming in is going to be Alexa bedding.

>> Isabel Nelson, who got the assist on the first goal, has dropped into the midfield here on the right.

>> Bedding dumping it down here for Anderson.

Anderson with the cutback.

The left foot towards the net and just wide of the mark.

Boy, what a cutter by Anderson.

>> Anderson scoring the first goal.

But look at this here.

Cuts it on to her left foot.

Great technique.

Scoring the first goal with her right foot, showing the ability with both feet.

Great chop going past the defender.

>> Now mineky.

No one home.

Denver tries to clear.

Now out alone to the near side.

Nelson the shot and that's in -- that's a goal for Nevada!

>> And shall we say a great tactical change there by the head coach for Nevada?

Because now just shifted out to the right hand side.

I tell you what, Isabel Nelson getting forward, great run in.

She was slightly tracked.

McKenzie saw it, didn't work out as you can see.

But look at this angle.

Was it a cross?

Was it a shot?

Who cares.

It's in the back of the net.

>> So Nevada, might have had the dagger there with 12:38 to play.

Isabel Nelson getting that goal.

And one thing Randy Davis had told us about Isabel, is the fact that she always stays aggressive.

Said he's coached for 24 years.

He's never had a player have that much fuel all the time like Nelson.

They might have added the insurance.

Goal kicker coming up here for Nevada.

You think about that with 12:00 and some change to play, and Nevada up to nil-1.

Trying to win their school's first-ever state championship.

For Randy Davison, his first ever season saying so long.

He has 12 minutes to savor this as he's going to be retiring from coaching.

He's really built the program from scratch.

Started out with a terrific youth club.

Has been dominant, and of course a lot of his players have given way to play a lot of club soccer.

For coach Davis, what a gentleman of the game.

Hard tackle.

This one stays in play.

As Denver not gonna give up without a fight.

Back to -- >> Credit to Randy on that as well, building the program, look at the product on the field, justifiable.

You get great satisfaction -- I'm sure he gets great satisfaction out of what he's produced here, but it's throughout the years, like you said, building a program in the community.

I really love that.

I think it goes a long ways.

Same with Denver.

You look at what they built in the community, some of the players play club as well.

I love it.

>> In fact, for Nevada, Randy also teaches eighth grade history, trying to make history here too, pardon the pun.

It's what he was talking about the other day.

Of course, this is the last year, for now, that the girls state soccer championships are going to be here at county soccer park.

They're going to be moving very close to Nevada next year, playing at Iowa state university.

He was joking.

He said, you know what, his assistant coaches said -- look out, as mineky has a chance here at the top.

That shot going to be held wide as JERVIS gave it a whirl.

He was talking about how great the facilities they have, and the community has really gotten behind their parks and recreation program in Nevada.

If you haven't been there, you would shake your head because a community put together a multimillion dollar project not only for indoor facilities, soccer, basketball, all that, but their outdoor facility is certainly second to none.

And the investment, starting to pay off with the success potentially here as we're going down the stretch, inside 10:00 to play in this class 1A state championship match.

>> There's a positive as well.

You're going to save some money on gas.

It's a little bit closer to home.

Was that part of you doing that?

>> No.

And you think about where the girls state soccer championship happen held, MUSCATINE a long time ago.

Now in Des Moines.

And county park as certainly been a great host over the years.

Next year of course seeing it moved up to aims to Iowa state university, but it's been moved around a little bit, but the crowds continue to follow.

Terrific crowd on hand here today, and we're expecting that for the next two championship matches.

Be checking out perhaps for the last time, as what a tournament.

She would have the game's first goal and trying to cap it off, as I can only imagine the emotions and the thoughts going through Randy Davis' head right now.

0 for 2 coming into the state title match.

And as Nevada in prime position to win their school's first-ever state championship.

>> As you can see in the picture there, Randy Davis pacing up and down.

He's still nervous.

Under 8:00 to go in this match.

Two goals, it's still nothing.

It's a good cushion, though.

I think that was the cushion he was looking for.

We talked about the sub that just went off, first goal scorer, Avery anderson.

Boy, what a shift he's put in today.

>> Coming up at the conclusion, we'll have the award presentation.

Mineky's shot goes wide right.

Plus the all-tournament team will be announced.

As this 1A state title match starts to wind down here from county park in Des Moines.

Hope you're enjoying our coverage here of the girls state soccer championships on Iowa PBS along with a crew of many.

As the slider goes ahead.

Look out.

Opportunity for Nevada.

The centering pass.

Here's bedding.

And Denver says no more.

Cyclones looking for the opportunity here to try to make this one interesting down the stretch.

MULLIHAN pinned up on that far sideline.

>> Great defending on the far side there.

MULLIHAN, dangerous player.

She's been contained today.

Says something about the defending for the cubs doing their homework on Denver, picking out critical players.

>> Nevada controlling the tempo.

>> Thompson just keeping the ball.

The corner flag.

Under 6:00.

To go.

Just killing a bit of time.

>> We'll see another corner here.

As Nevada goes back to their bench.

Or throw, excuse me, that came in.

That attempt by anderson, a block by Denver, and there's going to be a bruise, no doubt.

>> Avery anderson going off.

We thought that was the last of it.

She probably begged head coach Randy Davis, put me on.

>> I want to be on the field when this thing winds town.

Here's Nelson off into the corner just milking some time.

As this will stay with Nevada, a throw from the deep corner.

>> Avery Thompson just going across as well.

Key players in there.

Didn't quite pick it up, though.

Again, MULLIHAN is isolated.

Denver needs to throw some players forward at this point.

Just commit extra players.

I would even go for MULLIHAN and snider.

>> This shot going to be wide.

Bedding gave it a whirl.

And a goal kick here for Denver.

>> Slightly off balance with bedding when she struck that ball.

Head came up.

She's looking at the goal.

Leaning away from it technique.

>> They try to find MULLIHAN.

Clean play as her and Davis collided.

>> Lovely pass from Davis.

Picking out on the far side Isabelle Nelson had a fantastic match today so far.

>> Mineky.

Nevada came into the state tournament as the four seed, had to come from behind against hudson.

Here an opportunity that goes wide.

>> Lovely pass there from bedding.

To Thompson.

Thompson's on the spin.

Striking the ball over the cross bar.

If they fix the technique, just get the body over the ball, get the strikes right, you'll get more on frame.

They've done enough so far with a two-goal lead here.

Look at the shift Nelson's putting in on the far side there just tracking back, just doing the right things.

>> And a free kick will be coming up, a penalty called against Nevada, as MULLIHAN hit the turf hard and is very slow to get up.

She has a bloody nose right now.

What a collision.

>> Two centerbacks need to get forward here.

>> And it will be a corner kick here coming up for Denver.

Still have some time here.

MULLIHAN trying to get everything done so she can get back into the contest.

The centering pass just over the head of muller.

>> Great delivery from the corner.

>> Nevada able to clear it.

2:00 to play.

>> Avery anderson doing well there just to keep the ball.

It's a good possession here.

>> Nevada just spreading the field.

Again, working a little base offense here trying to work this clock down as much as they can with this two had of goal lead.

The Nevada crowd up on their feet.

A championship on the horizon.

>> If you've not been impressed, you can kill time and possession, best way to do it.

Keep your opponents running as they look to get forward.

>> Quick throw by Denver out into space.

And again as Nevada has done all day, able to clear that out.

You see the clock winding down.

Nevada moments away from winning their school's first-ever state title.

They've got in prime position to be able to do it, and what a way to say good-bye to their long-time head coach Randy Davis.

24 years of coaching, has guided the cubs to -- this is their third state championship appearance.

And today, they're gonna hit PADER.

Nevada is going to win it 2-nil over the Denver cyclones, and they are your class 1A state The how about that for Nevada.

Anderson to Nelson, two goals in this one.

Isabelle Nelson not only with a goal but an assist on that opening goal.

For Denver, lots of youngsters.

Only a couple of seniors on the roster.

No doubt they will be back.

>> They will be back.

Have a young side quality.

They have this size.

Coach will go back, he'll rebuild, he'll come back hungry next year.

They are a good side.

Credit to them.

They worked hard.

They just weren't good enough on the day to beat the cubs.

>> And Randy Davis finally getting that state championship.

He says it's about the girls, though, not about him.

He'll be the first to admit that.

Says the title is for the kids, not for him.

But I know the kids wanted to do it for their coach.

>> What a way to go out.

He says he's retiring before the finals, not after the finals.

Most coaches do it after, and I love the fact that he gives credit to his players.

It's about them.

He isn't taking the credit, he's very humble about it.

It says a lot for the program.

I bet you he'll be asked to stay.

>> He'll be around.

>> He'll be around it.

>> He'll be around it.

>> I was impressed with the Nevada cubs.

The technical qualities in the team and how they kept the ball in the last 5-6:00, just winding the clock down.

Also, I think that the Denver cyclones just ran out of energy.

They did have a spell of 15:00 in the after.

>> Now it's time to turn it over the Rex baker as we have the trophy presentation.

>> Ladies and gentlemen, at this time, we would like to direct your attention to the field for the awards presentation.

Sending the awards are members of the girls union board of directors.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2024 class 1A all tournament team.

From Nevada, Isabelle Nelson.

From Denver, grace MULLIHAN.

From Nevada, Avery anderson.

From Denver, Miranda thurm.

From new Hartford, Miranda Tyler.

From dike, new Hartford, Anna bering.

From trainer, JOSIE Lewis.

From trainer, ALLIE houser.

From Nevada, Aubrey Thompson.

From Denver, Alyssa HARBERTs.

And the captain of your class 1A 2024 all-tournament team, from Nevada, Evelyn anderson!

>> So there is your all-tournament team.

Evelyn anderson named the captain.

And of course what a group and what a week here in Des Moines.

>> Yeah.

Deservedly so.

I mean, a performance today, not just today but the whole week.

I think it also goes to that if you're consistent, you deserve I think that's absolutely fantastic.

>> So there is the all-tournament team, as Nevada wins the class 1A state championship, as we'll have the trophy presentation here coming up momentarily.

I want to remind you the class 3A state title match begins at 2:30.

It's Bali and BentonDORF.

Let's go to those trophy presentations.

>> Each player will receive a commemorative soccer ball provided by the Iowa farm bureau, title sponsor of the Iowa girls high school athletic union.

Ladies and gentlemen, the class 1A runner up Denver cyclones and head coach Derek.

The and your 2024 class 1A champions, the cubs from Nevada and head coach Randy Davis!

>> What a championship and well-earned by Nevada.

>> Totally agree with you.

Deserved it.

They were absolutely class on the day.

Won the lap at half time, dominated possession.

There was a lot in the game with the press from Denver changed.

There you go, deservedly so.

>> So Nevada will be bringing home some hardware, the third time was the charm for the cubs as they defeat Denver here today 2-nil in the 1A state championship match.

For Justin, the rest of the crew here at Iowa PBS, I'm P.J.

saying so long for the moment.

Join us at 2:30 here this afternoon as it will be the 3A state title match as the bulldogs and west Des Moines Valley tigers go at it here on the pitch.

We hope you've been enjoying Iowa girls soccer championship coverage here for your pre and your state wide media metwork, Iowa PBS.

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